10 of the Best Running Shoes for Women

Before you hit the pavement for your next workout, it's important to invest time in finding a pair of high-quality, perfectly-fit-for-you running shoes. In fact, researchers from Loyola University Medical Center concluded that the majority of injuries that have been reported by marathon runners—including blisters, toenail injuries, plantar fasciitis (heel pain), foot stress fractures, and sprained ankles—were related to improper shoes, along with improper socks and training. So do your feet a favor and check out a few tips on choosing the right shoes for your next jog, race, or long-distance run.

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Focus on Function, Not Fashion

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As much as we enjoy wearing trendy shoes that come in an array of stylish colors, choosing running sneakers should be based on need, not want. "It's extremely important because the best shoe for you might be the one that is the least appealing to you aesthetically," says Tom Holland, MS, CSCS, exercise physiologist, founder of Team Holland, and author of Swim, Bike Run—Eat.

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Get Fitted By a Pro

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Even though you may ultimately purchase your running shoes online, you may want to try on a few pair in the "right" type of shop. "Don't buy running shoes from a store that also sells tents, baseball bats, and beverage coolers," explains Holland. "Go to a specialty running store that is staffed by runners, where they will ask you a myriad of questions, examine the wear pattern on your current shoes, and often do a gait analysis test on a treadmill right in the store."

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Shop The Proper Way

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The study authors from Loyola University also noted that the ideal time of day to head to the store is late in the day, since your feet will have naturally expanded after hours of being on them. And when you get fitted for sneakers, be sure to wear your typical running socks, as well as orthotics.

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Pricier Doesn't Always Mean Better

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While the old adage "You get what you pay for" does hold some truth in certain situations, it's not an appropriate quote when it comes to buying running shoes. "In fact, less expensive might just be better for you," states Holland, who's run in over 60 marathons and ultra-marathons around the world. He refers to research which found that low- to mid-priced shoes cushioned runners' feet just as well—if not better—than higher-priced sneakers of the same brand. "And another study, one that analyzed 134,867 reviews of 391 running shoes from 24 brands, concluded that 'there is no statistical correlation between the list price of a shoe and how well rated it is.'"

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There Is No Such Thing As THE Number One Running Sneaker

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"A common question people ask is, 'Which brand or model of running shoe is the best?'" states Holland. "But there isn't one. The best sneaker is the one that best correlates with your specific biomechanics, including your weekly mileage, goals, arch type, foot width, weight, primary running surface (treadmill, road, trail) whether you pronate or supinate, to name a few features."

Here are some of the most popular and highly rated running shoes on the market right now:

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Saucony Stabil CS3

A brand that has spent years studying the biomechanics of top athletes and relies on everyday runners to test and rate its products, this Saucony sneaker is known for its PowerGrid midsole cushioning and Support Frame Heel counter, making it a popular choice for those who deal with pronation problems (when the feet excessive roll inward upon landing), which can lead to injuries, such as shin splints, bunions, and plantar fasciitis.

The engineered mesh allows for breathability, so this ultralight shoe—which is cushioned in the midsole and offers flex grooves for natural range of motion—does not need time to get that "just right" feel.

The sock-like design gives these training sneakers a snug fit, and a gap in the overlay at the arch supports the natural movement of your foot. (And it comes in lots of bright colorful combinations, too!)

While this shoe was designed with technology to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off, an even bigger selling point is that it can support runners with larger builds, as well as those who require orthotics.

This breathable, seamless, and stretchable sneaker is known for its two-piece Charged Cushioning midsole, which is firmer below the heel and softer below the forefoot, offering both comfort and support. Also, its "unique tongue" further enhances a solid fit.

Named the 2017 Runner's World Best Debut for its performance-driven design and innovative KooshRide core technology, the tri-zone midsole of this sneaker also delivers shock absorption in the heel. The long-lasting cushion makes it a winner for long distance runners.

Advertised as the world's lightest fully cushioned running shoe, the patented Swiss technology incorporated into the sole responds to your individual gait, which helps deliver a strong takeover with a soft, protective landing. Like walking on a cloud, hence the name.

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